City of Rochester, MN Police Department

10/14/2026

A few officers spent time after their shift picking up litter at Watson Field as part of the city's Litter Bit Better fall cleanup. Thank you for volunteering your time and pitching in to keep clean!

10/13/2026

The Rochester Police Benevolent Association (RPBA) promotes social, charitable and educational activities among law enforcement, while cultivating a spirit of respect between officers and the citizens they serve. We are grateful for their ongoing support!

Only a few days to Hairball - make sure to get your tickets soon!

10/09/2026

A 15-week criminal investigation into suspected drug activity resulted in two arrests, the seizure of co***ne and cash, and the recovery of a handgun.

The Rochester Police Department (RPD) arrested Akili Scott, age 31, Rochester, and Ashley Kaus, age 24, Rochester, on October 8 around 11 a.m. in the 1900 block of Viking Dr. NW.

RPD executed search warrants on September 29 and October 8 related to the investigation, locating evidence of drug sales, just over half a pound of co***ne and several thousand dollars. A handgun was also recovered during a traffic stop of the suspects on June 24.

During the investigation, RPD received some related tips from community members.

“The outcome of this investigation reflects the Rochester Police Department’s dedication to addressing neighborhood concerns and keeping illegal drugs out of our community. I commend our officers and detectives for their diligent work and thank those who shared information. By working together and responding to community concerns, we strengthen our shared commitment to public safety,” said Rochester Police Chief Jim Franklin.

Anyone with information about suspected drug activity or other criminal activity is encouraged to contact RPD through the Narcotics Tip Line, 507-328-6760, or the Crime Stoppers Tip Line, 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

10/06/2026

On October 6 around 4:30 a.m., officers were dispatched to the 700 block of 13th Ave. NE on a report that a man entered a residence and went through some rooms before leaving in a car. Officers also discovered a string of thefts from vehicles in the neighborhood. The suspect vehicle was later located on the 100 block of 9th St. NE, and stolen property from the reported thefts, including a backpack and power tool batteries, were found inside. The suspect, Mario Hernandez Leonardo, age 20, Rochester, was taken into custody.
ICR 26-51621

10/01/2026

Officer Jacobsen and Community Service Officer Jensen got a special surprise visit! Sebastian, a community member the officers recently assisted, stopped by to say thank you with personalized cakes! Building positive connections with the people we serve is an important part of what we do. To help strengthen those connections, RPD officers receive training on autism spectrum disorder and ways to better understand and interact with individuals with autism. Thank you, Seb, for making our day!

09/27/2026

On September 26 at approximately 10:25 p.m., officers were dispatched to the area of 12th Ave. NE and 14th St. NE for a two-vehicle crash. Rochester, MN Fire Dept. extricated all four occupants of one vehicle. They were transported to the hospital by Mayo Clinic Ambulance Service. The driver and sole occupant of the other vehicle did not appear to be injured. RPD is investigating the crash.

09/26/2026

The Rochester Police Department (RPD) is investigating a fatal crash.

On September 25, 2026 at approximately 7:40 p.m., officers responded to the intersection of 41st St. NW and Circle Dr. NW for a crash involving a van and a bicycle. The bicyclist, an adult male, was transported by Mayo Clinic Ambulance Service to the hospital where he later died. The driver of the van was not injured.

The intersection was partially closed while RPD’s Forensic Mapping Unit Processed the scene.

09/24/2026

Innovation continues to be a priority at RPD, as demonstrated through our Drone as First Responder (DFR) program.

Detective Kendrick, RPD Drone Program Manager, recently represented the department at a national conference bringing together leaders who are building and expanding drone programs across public safety, national security, energy and utilities and critical infrastructure.

He also joined a panel of experts focused on training DFR pilots for real-world operations.

We’re proud to have RPD represented on a national stage and look forward to bringing new ideas and best practices back to .

09/21/2026

RPD is requesting the public's assistance identifying this individual in connection with an assault that occurred downtown early on 9/17/26. The suspect is a male believed to be 30-40 years old, 5'5" to 5'10" tall, 150-175 pounds with dark hair and a beard. The suspect speaks Arabic. Please call 507-328-2898 if you recognize this individual.